Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
by Makarand Gopal Newalkar | 2017 | 82,851 words | ISBN-13: 9780893890926
Yoga-sutras Universal applicability of Patanjala-Yogasutras, English translation with modern and ancient interpretation. The Patanjali Yogasutras describe an ancient Indian tradition spanning over 5000 years old dealing with Yoga:—Meditating the mind on the Atma leading to the realization of self. This study interprets the Yogasutras in light of both ancient and modern commentaries (e.g., Vyasa and Osho) while supporting both Sankhya and Vedanta philosophies.
Part 2 - Universal applicability of Pātañjala-Yogasūtras
As we will see in the following pages, applicability of various techniques given by Patañjali for attainment of spiritual progress and evolution are also universal in nature. The sādhanā techniques suggested by Patañjaliare beyond the boundaries of caste, creed, gender, religion, social or economic status. It is also beyond the religious beliefs, dogmas and isms of the practitioner.
In fact,Patañjalinever requires the practitioner to believe even in ‘God’, as can be seen from sūtra–
īśvarapraṇidhānādvā || 1.23 ||
Wherein the word vā indicating an option, or choice or alternative for surrendering to ‘God’ is made available by Patañjali. As such Patañjali’s sādhanā techniques can be adopted even by ‘non-believers’ without compromising any of a practitioner’s belief or non-belief.
It is therefore not surprising that United Nations Organization’s (UNO) resolution to celebrate 21st June of every year as ‘International Yoga Day’ was not only adopted unanimously but since then it is being celebrated across the world with vigor and enthusiasm irrespective of different political ideologies of even various diverse countries such as Pakistan, China, Russia and USA.